Senator Jon Tester testified Tuesday before a Senate committee in favor of his renewable energy development bill. Tester said his Public Land Renewable Energy Development Act will “streamline permitting for renewable energy projects on public lands and increase America’s energy production and direct revenues to local communities while also protecting land.”

"I believe the expansion of wind and solar development is compatible with public land protection," Tester said. "America's wind energy potential is vast, and when responsibly developed, it can be a win for business, a win for communities, and a win for wildlife."

Tester said the changes will also increase local governments’ revenue and certainty by establishing a more predictable and direct renewable energy royalty system that will support conservation and federal land access projects.

"Protecting our public lands and keeping them public is vital to the American economy," Tester said. "I believe the expansion of wind and solar development is compatible with public land protections."

To view Tester's Public Land Renewable Energy Development Act, click here.

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